The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is a closed-back studio headphone engineered for accurate monitoring and critical listening. Designed as a budget-friendly alternative to higher-end reference monitors, these headphones deliver neutral sound reproduction and robust construction for professional and home studio use.
7 mentions · 3 threadslast mention Dec 2019
Real comments from Reddit, linked to the original thread. Nothing paraphrased.
I bought a pair of AT M40x's early this year and ended up returning them. In stock form, they were probably the most uncomfortable headphones I've worn to date. Super tight clamp force, and the stock pads being horrible. Sound wise, I loved them even though the sound stage was minimal and very "closed". Comfort wise though, I couldn't wear them for more than maybe 15-20min.
If you want comfort I would avoid these. They sound absolutely fantastic for the price, but after even a short period of time the headband begins to really dig in and hurt the top of my head.
I've found the exact opposite, actually. I've had a pair for 4 years and when the faux leather started to deteriorate, I demoted them to using them for my job as a live audio engineer and bought another pair for home use. Both are durable as hell and been through many conventions, vacations, airports, gaming sessions, you name it. In my experience, they're very comfortable.
Yeah the ear cups suck, they tear and aren't comfortable. Bought Brain-Wavs and haven't looked back. Think I've had that set-up for about 4-5 years now.
These are very flatly tuned, which is awesome for listening to music and sound with crystal clear clarity. I will say that these do not have the best directionality. I'd say about average directionality but that's normal for closed back headphones.
I use the ATH-M40xs at least 8 hours a day and I get very minor discomfort. Maybe it's because I have a small head.
i picked up the ath-M40x and they hurt my ears from the vice grip
The ATH-M40x splits users sharply on comfort—owners with smaller heads report years of daily use, but tight clamping causes pain within 15–20 minutes for others. Sound quality is a consistent win: neutral tuning and accurate drivers make these one of the best budget studio headphones. The faux leather earpads deteriorate after 4–5 years, but $40 aftermarket replacements resolve both comfort and bass response. Long-term owners praise durability and value. Buy if you have a smaller head or plan to upgrade earpads; avoid if clamping is a concern.